Radiographers launch trade union action citing patient safety risks

The Government Radiological Technologists’ Association (GRTA) has announced trade union action, warning that patient safety is being severely compromised due to unqualified individuals conducting radiography scans within the state healthcare system.

In a statement issued yesterday, the Association said repeated warnings and formal complaints regarding illegal and unethical radiography practices have gone unaddressed, forcing professionals to take action in the interest of public safety.

“Radiography involves the use of ionizing radiation, which poses serious health risks if handled by untrained personnel,” the GRTA said, warning that improper exposure could lead to irreversible radiation injuries and long-term health complications. The Association stressed that the issue goes beyond administrative lapses and constitutes a direct threat to patients.

The GRTA accused authorities of failing to act not only against unqualified individuals performing scans, but also against those who allegedly enabled and permitted such practices within healthcare institutions.

The trade union action, the Association said, is aimed at defending patient safety, safeguarding professional standards, opposing illegal radiography practices, and demanding immediate corrective measures and accountability from responsible authorities.

The Association reiterated that radiographers’ primary duty is to patients and said it would continue its action until concrete steps are taken to ensure safe, ethical, and legally compliant radiography services across government hospitals.